Water of Leith Management Plan

Prepared for

Water of Leith Action Group

By

July 2010

Acknowledgements

Thank you to all the organisations and individuals who provided information or comment during the preparation of this plan. This includes all those listed in Appendix A to this report, and those organisations and members of the public who commented on the draft plan.

Prepared by Sue Bell Ecology: [email protected] on behalf of the Water of Leith Action Group Contents

Page No

1. INTRODUCTION...... 1 1.1 Background to the plan...... 1 1.2 Scope of the management plan...... 2 1.3 Plan preparation ...... 2 1.4 Structure of the plan ...... 2 2 SETTING THE SCENE...... 4 2.1 The Water of Leith...... 4 2.2 Issues...... 4 3 MANAGEMENT PLAN...... 7 3.1 Vision ...... 7 3.2 Aims & Objectives ...... 7 3.3 Actions ...... 7 3.3.1 Ongoing actions...... 9 3.3.2 New Actions that are a priority for implementation ...... 13 3.3.3 Short Term...... 16 3.3.4 Medium term...... 19 3.3.5 Long term ...... 22 3.3.6 Actions to be implemented as opportunities or relevant circumstances arise ..22 3.4 Implementation and Monitoring...... 26

1. INTRODUCTION

This is a management plan for the Water of Leith. It is designed to last for a ten-year period (2010 – 2020) and covers all the major uses of and interests in the Water of Leith. It includes actions to deliver environmental improvement for the Water of Leith, whilst balancing the needs of all stakeholders and user groups.

The plan has been prepared for the Water of Leith Action Group (see Box 1) with funding from Scottish Natural Heritage, City of Edinburgh Council and support by the Water of Leith Conservation Trust, by Sue Bell Ecology. It is hoped that other stakeholders with an interest in the management of the river may wish to be involved in the implementation of the management plan.

1.1 Background to the plan

A number of agencies and organisations are currently involved in managing the river. Some of these, such as the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) and the City of Edinburgh Council (CEC) have statutory responsibilities for aspects of the river’s management, whilst others, such as the Water of Leith Conservation Trust (WoLCT), are voluntary organisations. A plan is needed to provide direction for all stakeholders and landowners over the future management of the river. Shared objectives and priorities will give clarity to the implementation of action along the river and a unified and agreed plan will mean greater support from all stakeholders. Defining roles and responsibilities and reporting on performance against objectives will deliver a more cohesive approach to the river’s management.

It has been agreed by key stakeholders that the plan should be a working document that includes monitoring and is flexible enough to respond to funding opportunities, changes in key organisations and legislation.

Box 1: Water of Leith Action Group

The Group was established in the 1980s and meets twice a year to discuss issues that affect the management of the river. Current membership includes: Water of Leith Conservation Trust Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) Forth Ports Water of Leith Honorary Bailiffs Scottish Wildlife Trust City of Edinburgh Council: City Development; Planning (Natural Heritage) City of Edinburgh Council: Bridges and Structures City of Edinburgh Council: Flood Prevention Team City of Edinburgh Council: Services for Communities; Environment (Countryside Ranger Service) Edinburgh Flood Prevention Group

1

1.2 Scope of the management plan

The plan focuses on management of the river from where it leaves Harperrig Reservoir, to where it enters Leith Docks at the Victoria Swing Bridge. It also considers some aspects of management of Harperrig Reservoir, and the Bavelaw Burn, which is a major tributary of the Water of Leith. Within this area, the main concentration has been on issues associated with the river between Balerno and Leith.

The Water of Leith Action Group identified a number of topics that should be addressed by the management plan: water quality, flow and flood prevention, biodiversity, geodiversity, habitat management and invasive species, access and recreation, planning and development, built heritage, landscape, archaeology, reservoirs, micro hydro, education and interpretation, and community involvement. These are all included in this plan.

1.3 Plan preparation

The plan is based on existing published and readily accessible information. A digest of the information used is published in a separate volume as a series of topic papers. Discussions with key stakeholders were also carried out during preparation of the plan. A list of organizations contacted is contained in Appendix A to the topic papers.

A public consultation exercise was carried out in May 2010. This document takes account of comments raised during the consultation exercise, and the wishes of stakeholders to participate in the plan’s delivery.

1.4 Structure of the plan

This plan has been written for groups and organisations who are already involved in managing the Water of Leith, and who know and understand the issues that require to be addressed. These organisations have requested a management plan that is “action led”. For that reason this document starts with a summary of the key management issues and then presents a series of summary actions, which are contained in Tables depending on the priority with which each action should be implemented. The structure of the document is:

• Section 2 provides a brief overview of the management issues facing the river. These have been identified through consultation with the key stakeholders, and have been extracted from individual topic papers prepared for the plan (which are provided as a separate document). • Section 3 describes the vision, aims and objectives for the management of the Water of Leith, and includes the actions required to meet these. The actions are divided into a series of tables based on the urgency with which they should be implemented.

The plan is a stand alone document, but further background information for each subject area are contained in a series of supporting Topic papers, which are bound as a

2 separate document. Papers have been produced to address: management; biodiversity; fisheries; archaeology, cultural and built heritage; recreation and access; education and interpretation; geodiversity; landscape; planning; and water. Each paper summarises the historic and current situation, identifies current management initiatives, and identifies which of the overall aims, objectives and actions in the main plan apply to each topic area.

Two Figures have been produced to accompany the plan. The first provides an overview of the environmental assets associated with the river, and shows the location of designated sites and features. The second shows the location of particular site management issues. These are also bound separately.

3 2 SETTING THE SCENE

2.1 The Water of Leith

The Water of Leith flows over 24 miles (35km) from its source in the Pentland Hills to the Firth of Forth at Leith Docks. It passes through the historic villages of Balerno, Currie, Juniper Green, Colinton, Slateford, Roseburn, Dean Village, Stockbridge and Warriston. The Water of Leith walkway follows the course of the river for approximately 12 ¾ miles (18 km) from Balerno to Leith and passes through various City Parks and open spaces.

River flow is regulated via discharges from Harperrig Reservoir. The flow in the Bavelaw Burn, a major tributary of the Water of Leith, is also regulated via discharges from Harlaw and Threipmuir Reservoirs.

The upper reaches of the river lie within West Lothian Council jurisdiction, but the reservoirs themselves belong to the City of Edinburgh Council. The whole of the Water of Leith walkway lies within the City of Edinburgh Council area.

Numerous statutory and non-statutory designations are in place for parts of the Water of Leith. The river itself has been identified as a Local Biodiversity Site (LBS) and several protected species live along its banks. Sections of the river lie within an Area of Great Landscape Value (AGLV). Part of the river is within the Edinburgh World Heritage site. Scheduled Monuments, historic gardens and numerous listed buildings are also present along its banks. Further details of these designations can be found in the relevant topic papers, and the location of some of these environmental assets is shown on a Figure bound separately.

The river has a rich history dating back to pre-Roman times. There are numerous remains of the many mills that once worked the river. Today the river is used for recreation and access, providing a welcome open space through the heart of Scotland’s capital city.

A number of organisations, agencies and individuals are involved in the river’s management. The action of a number of these is co-ordinated through the Water of Leith Action Group.

2.2 Issues

Current issues for management of the river that have been identified during consultations for this project are (listed in no particular order):

Flood management: A major flood prevention scheme for the City of Edinburgh is being implemented. This has required purchase of, and modifications to Harlaw, Threipmuir and Harperrig Reservoirs, and will involve the construction of walls and other flood defence measures along lengths of the Water of Leith, and lowering of water levels in the reservoirs to increase storage capacity. The work has been subject to detailed environmental appraisal, and an Environmental Action Plan has been developed to mitigate likely adverse impacts. The main issues are related to the implementation of the works with the minimum environmental impact, the application of actions included in

4 the Environmental Action Plan, and ongoing management of flows to reduce future flood risk.

Litter and debris: Litter and debris accumulate quickly at various locations along the river. The Water of Leith Conservation Trust organises around 50 clean-up operations annually along the river between Balerno to Great Junction Street, which reduces the amount of material that is swept down river. A collection boom has been installed at the entrance to Leith Docks to prevent it from entering the docks and creating a shipping hazard. Voluntary partnerships between the Council and private landowners have been established to remove the litter around Commercial Street and at a boom at the entrance to the docks. These appear to work well, but could be altered if there were changes in personnel or land ownership. There is a proposal to install a new boom at Commercial Street. The issue for the management plan is to continue to manage and remove the vast amounts of litter and debris that enter the river, in order to retain the aesthetic and water quality.

Micro hydro generation: The potential to introduce micro hydro schemes along the Water of Leith has been investigated. From a long list of 33 possible sites, 15 sites were considered to have the technical potential for hydro schemes. Five of these were considered to have the potential to be developed in the short or medium term: Harperrig, Harlaw, Balerno Bank, Mossy Mill and Dean Weir 2. Feasibility studies to implement schemes at Harlaw, Harperrig, Balerno Bank and Dean Weir 2 have been proposed. Such schemes have benefits in terms of promoting renewable energy, and in providing links with the river’s past, but there are also issues relating to impacts on biodiversity, fish populations, and measures to “re-naturalise” the river to achieve good ecological potential under the Water Framework Directive.

Water Framework Directive: This Directive, which is implemented in Scotland through the Water Environment and Water Services (Scotland) Act 2003, requires the creation of a river basin planning system that will promote sustainable water use while protecting and improving the water environment, which is being co-ordinated by SEPA. An Area Management Plan for the Forth Area Advisory Group area which includes the Water of Leith catchment will be produced in 2010. This will include a range of local measures to drive improvements. These measures will be delivered by a range of responsible authorities and through working in partnership with local groups and individuals e.g. landowners. Actions for the Water of Leith will be included within these plans.

EU Floods Directive: This is implemented through the Flood Risk Management (Scotland) Act 2009, which states that Scottish Ministers, SEPA and responsible authorities (i.e. Councils) must "exercise their flood risk related functions with a view to reducing overall flood risk". It also says that they must

• "act in the way best calculated to manage flood risk in a sustainable way"; • "promote sustainable flood risk management"; • "act with a view to raising public awareness of flood risk; and" • "act in the way best calculated to contribute to the achievement of sustainable development".

The main influences of the Council's functions on the management of the Water of Leith are:

5 • carrying out clearance and repair works where they would substantially reduce the risk of flooding; • managing Harlaw, Threipmuir and Harperrig reservoirs in order to reduce peak flows in the river during a flood; and • constructing flood defences under the confirmed Water of Leith Flood Prevention Scheme

Public involvement: Over 4000 hours of practical work are carried out by volunteers on the Water of Leith on an annual basis. This is in addition to volunteer hours provided in association with the City of Edinburgh Council Countryside Ranger Service, and volunteer hours spent in staffing the Water of Leith Visitor Centre. The issue for the management plan is to ensure that this resource is maintained and used effectively.

Access, recreation & interpretation: The path is used by local residents and visitors. The condition of the path is monitored frequently, and measures to maintain it in a safe condition are implemented. However, it is now some time since the path was completed, and some of the signs are missing, meaning that there can be confusion about access points. New street furniture and signs have been installed at various times, and this has led to a lack of consistency in features. For example, different styles of seat can be found within a few metres of each other. A Visitor Centre was constructed as part of the walkway Millennium project. This acts as a hub for education, recreation and information related to the river and the path. The issue for the management plan is to enhance the image of the Water of Leith through improved and consistent signage and interpretation, maintenance of a physical focal point from which education and information can be provided; and increasing opportunities for residents and visitors to learn about the river.

Invasive species: Invasive plant species are present at a number of locations along the river. A four-year project, funded by the Millennium Commission targeted Giant Hogweed ( Heracleum mantegazzianum ) along the river from 2000. The flood defence works have acted as a catalyst for action to eradicate invasive species in some areas, but action is required on lengths of river not affected by the flood defence works. Also, there is a need to ensure that the invasive species do not recolonise the river from other sites in the City and to ensure that there is a long-term strategy for the control of these species. Alien animal species are also present in and along the river. This includes bullhead ( Cottus gobio ), which is thought to be interacting with native fish populations, and mink ( Neovision vision ), which may be impacting on wildfowl populations. A better understanding of the impacts of these alien animal species is required.

Installation of a major new artwork: The National Galleries of Scotland has commissioned a major new artwork by Antony Gormley entitled “6 Times”. The installation comprises 6 life-size statues, 4 of which will be located in the river itself. The Galleries are drawing up a maintenance plan for the installation. There are opportunities for working with the Galleries to attract new visitors to the path and in collaborative management of litter issues relating to the statues.

6 3 MANAGEMENT PLAN

3.1 Vision

Our vision is of a river that we can all be proud of, now and for the future: a river that is healthy, which flows through a green corridor from the hills to the sea, is a haven for wildlife, is enjoyed and managed by the public, and is valued for its built and cultural heritage.

3.2 Aims & Objectives

The overall aims and objectives for the river (across all interests) are: 1. To maintain and create a river that is as clean and natural as possible and reaches good ecological potential within the confines of an urban setting, whilst protecting homes and businesses from flooding. 2. Increase the level of co-ordinated action between all stakeholders who hold management interests in the Water of Leith. 3. To create a planning framework that will safeguard the special qualities of the Water of Leith including its integrity, tranquillity, amenity, historical, landscape and natural heritage value. 4. To promote awareness and understanding of all aspects of the Water of Leith’s natural 1, built, cultural and historical heritage. 5. To safeguard and enhance the landscape character and visual amenity of the setting of the Water of Leith. 6. To safeguard and enhance the biodiversity quality of the Water of Leith, including management of invasive species. 7. To identify, safeguard and promote features of archaeological and cultural importance. 8. To improve the water and aesthetic quality of the Water of Leith. 9. To safeguard and enhance the Water of Leith as an urban game fishery. 10. To provide opportunities for people to use, enjoy, understand, and participate in the management of, the Water of Leith 11. To provide a path of high quality and promote its responsible use.

These 11 objectives have been developed by combining similar objectives for each of the individual sectoral interests that have been considered by this plan (See Topic Papers, bound as a separate volume). Further details of how a specific objective relates to a particular topic can be obtained by referring to the individual topic papers.

3.3 Actions

Actions required to meet these aims have been identified within individual topic papers prepared for this study (bound separately). Some actions are common to more than one topic (e.g. actions relating to interpretation). Tables containing consolidated lists of all the actions are provided below. The actions have been sub-divided into six tables depending on the urgency with which they should be implemented. The categories are:

1 Includes biodiversity, geodiversity and landscape

7 • Current management actions – these are things that are already happening, and which it is anticipated will continue during the lifespan of the plan. • Actions already agreed for implementation 2010- 2011, or which can readily be introduced – there is already a commitment for these actions to happen. It also includes actions that could readily be introduced with current resources. • Short term – these are actions that should be implemented as soon as resources allow, and certainly by 2013. • Medium term – these are actions, which whilst important, are not the most pressing priority for action, but should be completed by 2017. • Long term – these are actions which may take more time to implement, or are of lower priority. • Actions to be implemented as opportunities or circumstances arise – this includes a number of actions which could be implemented at any time but require to be triggered by external factors.

Within each table the actions have been grouped to distinguish those items that are related to policy and planning from those that are practical in nature. The actions have been developed from the actions identified for each topic. Numbers in brackets after each action provide a cross-reference to the topic paper that has acted as a source for that action. For example W3 means that the action is listed as action W3 in the water topic paper. The original topic paper should be consulted for more information about the background to each action.

The agencies and organisations involved in the implementation of each action are also shown, with the lead agency identified in bold type. Targets for each action are shown in a separate column. The success of each action should be recorded against these targets on an annual basis.

The locations for particular actions are shown on the Figure entitled Site Management Initiatives.

8 3.3.1 Ongoing actions It is important to recognise that there are many good management actions already in place for the Water of Leith. Table 1 highlights existing good management and the organisations involved in its implementation. It is anticipated that these actions will continue throughout the life of this plan.

Table 1: Current management actions, which it is anticipated will continue during the lifespan of this plan . (The Lead Agency is shown in bold type. Codes in brackets provide a link to the relevant topic paper (s) from which the action originates).

Action Organisations Milestones & targets involved (lead body shown in bold) 2 Actions relating to policy and planning (Codes in brackets indicate source of action) A1: Ensure that there is liaison between the WoLCT and CEC WoLCT, CEC CRS Weekly contact. Countryside Ranger Service, & CEC Countryside Ranger Service and other Council Departments, concerning immediate Liaison with other management/maintenance concerns (See M4 ). Council Departments A2: Monitor the implementation of relevant policies in existing local CEC City Completed and approved development to plans (specifically those relating to Waterside development as applied Development - be monitored in terms of relevant policies. to the Water of Leith). Monitoring should focus on how policies have Planning been applied to decisions, and how these have been implemented on the ground. (See P1 ) A3: Policy initiatives that promote and safeguard the Water of Leith as CEC City a) Identification of all wider policy initiatives an important landscape, amenity, historical and natural heritage asset Development – relevant to the Water of Leith. should be supported (e.g. Central Scotland Green Network). (See P2 ) Planning, EWHT b) Participation in at least 2 policy initiatives. A4: Continue to work in partnership and provide support for the Water CEC (various Ongoing. of Leith Conservation Trust, Edinburgh World Heritage Trust & the Departments), EWHT Honorary Bailiffs (See P4 ). A5: Implement actions required under the Water Framework Directive SEPA See targets set in River Baseline as set out in the River Baseline Management Plan Water Body Management Plan Water Body Information Information Sheets (See W7 ). Sheets.

2 Organisations are: WoLCT – Water of Leith Conservation Trust; CEC CRS – City of Edinburgh Council Countryside Ranger Service; RIGS – Lothian and Borders RIGS Group of the Edinburgh Geological Society; SEPA – Scottish Environment Protection Agency; WoLAG – Water of Leith Action Group; EWHT – Edinburgh World Heritage Trust; PHRPRS – Pentland Hills Regional Park Ranger Service; HS – Historic Scotland; SNH – Scottish Natural Heritage.

9 Action Organisations Milestones & targets involved (lead body shown in bold) 2 A6: Implement actions specific to the Water of Leith that are included Various organisations Targets included in LBAP. in the Edinburgh LBAP, 2010 – 2015 ( B2 ). Actions relating to practical projects A7: Monitor the physical condition of the path to ensure that it is safe CEC CRS, WoLCT a) Minimum of monthly checks. and fit for purpose & complete actions in Water of Leith Maintenance b) Completion of actions listed as priority 1 Plan, including improvements to access points ( R1 , R2 , and R5 ). – 3. c) Completion of actions listed as priority 4. d) Completion of improvements to 2 – 3 access points. A8: Implement a programme of events for volunteers including litter WoLCT, CEC CRS , a) Targets to be set on annual basis clean-ups, habitat management projects, assessments of condition & PHRPRS, (National through WoLCT Business Plan & CEC CRS use etc. (See M3 , B9 , W13 ) Galleries of Scotland work plan for litter around 6 Times b) Annual habitat management project artworks). c) c. 50 litter collections per year. A9: Provide visits and support to community groups ( E1 , E4 ). WoLCT, CEC CRS Targets to be set annually in WoLCT business plan and CEC CRS work programme. A10: Provide guided walks along the river on a variety of themes e.g. WoLCT, CEC CRS , a) For specific initial targets for individual geology, biodiversity, cultural history (See B7 , H12 , E2 , G5 ). (Will require liaison with topics see individual action points (B7, H12, RIGS, CEC E2 & G5). Archaeologist) b) Targets to be reviewed annually in WoLCT business plan and CEC CRS work programme. A11: Provide education programmes linked to curriculum for WoLCT, CEC CRS, a) For specific initial targets for individual excellence to school groups. To cover all topics e.g. cultural heritage, EWHT topics see individual action points (B7, H13, biodiversity (See B7 , H13 , E3 ). E3). b) Targets to be reviewed annually in WoLCT business plan and CEC CRS work programme.

10 Action Organisations Milestones & targets involved (lead body shown in bold) 2 A12: Undertake monitoring of fish populations ( F1 ). Honorary Bailiffs a) Annual assessments. b) Maintain populations throughout river. CEC Services for c) Mixed age class fish. Communities. d) Catch per unit effort to be maintained.

Potential for Student projects A13: Undertake an annual programme of stocking with brown trout. Honorary Bailiffs Numbers to be determined on annual basis (F2 ). depending on monitoring data and fishing effort. A14: Maintain programme of raking spawning beds. ( F6 ). Honorary Bailiffs Major beds to be raked. A15: Publicise the fishing on the Water of Leith through articles, Honorary Bailiffs, a) Install 12No. notices per year at various notices etc. ( F13 ) WoLCT, CEC CRS locations. b) One article per year in the press. A16: Continue to make the RIGS leaflet available at the Water of Leith WoLCT, CEC CRS, Paper copies of the leaflet should always be Visitor Centre and CEC CRS Visitor Centre at Hermitage of Braid & on display and available to visitors. monitor the number issued. (See G2 ) A17: Implement programme of chemical and biological monitoring and SEPA Meeting WFD targets. assess against current standards (See W10 ). A18: Manage river flows to minimise flood risk to homes and CEC City Development a) Flows meet other targets; properties using the best available means to measure flows and (will also require liaison b) flood risk reduced from current levels and control levels. ( W6 ) with Forth Ports) actively managed. A19: Litter and debris should be removed from the river (See W13 , WoLCT, CEC Targets are set for individual Action Points: W14 ). Neighbourhood a) Maintain programme of around 50 clean- teams, CEC ups per year organised by WoLCT. structures & flooding, b) Discuss litter collection at stakeholder Forth Ports, Water of meetings. Leith 2000 c) Collection methods agreed and implemented at booms.

11 Action Organisations Milestones & targets involved (lead body shown in bold) 2 A20: Remove, monitor and prevent the spread of invasive plant CEC City Survey and undertake control work annually species (includes control measures implemented under the flood Development – on both watercourses. defence scheme and use of volunteers for hand pulling of Himalayan Services for balsam). ( B10 , B11 ) Communities, CEC Structures & flooding (until end of implementation of flood works only) , WoLCT , Honorary Bailiffs, CEC CRS A21: Safeguard water quality through reporting all suspected pollution All organisations and Number of incidents recorded. incidents to SEPA (See W8 ). individuals

12 3.3.2 New Actions that are a priority for implementation Table 2 lists actions that are already agreed and about to be introduced (e.g. in association with the flood defence works), or which could be introduced relatively quickly and easily with existing resources.

Table 2: Actions already agreed for implementation 2010 – 2011, or which can readily be introduced with current resource allocations. (The Lead Agency is shown in bold type. Codes in brackets provide a link to the relevant topic paper (s) from which the action originates).

Action (Codes in brackets indicate source of action) Organisations Milestone & Targets involved (lead body shown in bold) 3 Actions related to policy and planning A22: Increase representation of different interests within the Water of WoLAG At least one cultural heritage representative Leith Action Group (WoLAG). A priority should be including on WoLAG. archaeological/ cultural heritage expertise (See M1 , H8 ). Organisations who might be invited include CEC Archaeologist, HS, EWHT A23: Expand stakeholder involvement in the sustainable management WoLAG, WoLCT , a) Hold initial meeting (e.g. to discuss this of the Water of Leith by instigating a Water of Leith stakeholders management plan). meeting 4. (See M2 , H9 ) b) Hold meetings on regular basis (either annually, or every two years – to be decided at first meeting). A24: Develop a flow chart that clearly explains the different CEC City Creation & distribution of chart to interested responsibilities with respect to the Water of Leith of each Council Development, CEC All bodies e.g. EWHT. Department & circulate this within the Council and the Water of Leith Departments

3 Organisations are: WoLCT – Water of Leith Conservation Trust; CEC CRS – City of Edinburgh Council Countryside Ranger Service; RIGS – Lothian and Borders RIGS Group of the Edinburgh Geological Society; SEPA – Scottish Environment Protection Agency; WoLAG – Water of Leith Action Group; EWHT – Edinburgh World Heritage Trust; PHRPRS – Pentland Hills Regional Park Ranger Service; HS – Historic Scotland; SNH – Scottish Natural Heritage 4 The meeting should be open to all organisations and groups who have a significant management role or interest in the management of the Water of Leith. During the preparation and consultation periods for this plan, the following organisations noted an interest in being involved in this meeting: CEC Archaeologist; CEC Forest Service; CEC Museums Service; CEC Neighbourhood Management Team leaders; CEC Services for Communities; Community Councils; Edinburgh Flood Prevention Group; EWHT, Greener Leith; Historic Scotland; National Galleries of Scotland; Pentland Hills Regional Park Ranger Service; Rosebery Estates; Water of Leith 2000. N.B. the final list of stakeholders will not be limited to these bodies.

13 Action (Codes in brackets indicate source of action) Organisations Milestone & Targets involved (lead body shown in bold) 3 Action Group ( M6 ). A25: Seek funding to support the development of new interpretation WoLCT a) Achieve funding for (at least) one materials and refresh of interpretation in the Water of Leith Visitor interpretation project. Centre. (See E6 , E13 , E14 ) b) Refresh of interpretative displays in Visitor Centre. A26: Participate in the development and implementation of the CEC City Provision of comments relating to Water of management plan for the Edinburgh World Heritage Site. (see H6 ) Development - Leith. Planning, EWHT, WoLCT, CEC Archaeologist, CEC Museums Service A27: Agree compensation flows post construction of flood defence SEPA, CEC City a) Flows are adequate to retain trout scheme, which allow for ecological (including fish) requirements in the Development - populations in the river. river and the reservoirs, and ensure that flows at Colinton are Structures & b) No adverse impacts on fish populations achieved by discharges along both the Bavelaw Burn and Water of Flooding , Honorary in reservoirs. Leith (See F10 , W5 ). Bailiffs c) Flow safeguarded in both river channels. d) Assessment of flow rates on levels in the reservoirs. A28: Identify causes of water quality downgrading through actions SEPA, Scottish Water Meeting WFD targets. identified by SEPA in Water Body information sheets (See W11 ). A29: Litter and debris should be collected at the boom near the CEC Neighbourhood a) Discuss litter collection at stakeholder Victoria Swing Bridge and near Commercial Street, through Teams, CEC meetings. appropriate mechanisms including voluntary agreements between the Structures & Flooding, b) Collection methods agreed and council and private landowners. (See W14 ) Forth Ports plc, Water implemented. of Leith 2000 A30: Liaise with the River Forth Fisheries Trust & Forth District Honorary Bailiffs, a) Hold meeting Salmon Fishery Board to identify areas of common action (See F14 ). Forth District Salmon b) Identification of lists of common Fishery Board, River aims/actions. Forth Fisheries Trust, WoLCT Actions relating to practical projects A31: The implementation of mitigation, landscape and habitat CEC City a) Two surveys of invertebrates and fish. restoration works associated with the Water of Leith flood prevention Development – b) Achievement of targets and actions in the schemes should be monitored (See the Environmental Action Plan for Structures & Flooding Environmental Action Plan for the flood

14 Action (Codes in brackets indicate source of action) Organisations Milestone & Targets involved (lead body shown in bold) 3 the scheme). This includes monitoring of fish and invertebrates on the & Natural Heritage, defence project. Water of Leith, water quality, and landscape (See B3 , B4 , F7 , L3 , SEPA, WoLCT, W16 ). Honorary Bailiffs, Flood defence contractors A32: Identify opportunities to include details about the Water of Leith in CEC Services for a) Information to be included as boards are interpretation material produced for other purposes e.g. information Communities (Parks updated in the Parks (e.g. Saughton Park). about public parks, in interpretation commissioned for “6 Times”, the & Green Spaces), b) Inclusion of information about the path in Antony Gormley statues. (See B5 , E12 , E16 , G6 ) WoLCT, National the “Six Times” information. Galleries of Scotland , c) Inclusion in material produced by the RIGS, PHRPRS Pentland Hills Regional Park. d) Inclusion of information about geological features. A33: Publicise the Water of Leith in the media (See E11 ). WoLCT, National To be set on an annual basis as per WoLCT Galleries of Scotland, business plan. EWHT A34: Make copies of the brass rubbing trail available through the WoLCT Trail available on website. Water of Leith website ( E19 ). A35: Make copies of interpretation maps & materials available through WoLCT , National Information to be available to download/ relevant websites. E.g. RIGS geology leaflet (See E20 , G3 ). Galleries of Scotland purchase via the website. A36: To encourage the involvement by Saughton Prison in supporting CEC CRS, WoLCT, Construction and installation of bat and bird biodiversity initiatives along the river e.g. construction of bird and bat Saughton Prison boxes. boxes. (See B14 ) Authorities

15 3.3.3 Short Term Table 3 lists actions for implementation during the short term, which has been defined as by 2013 for the purposes of this plan. They may be introduced earlier than this if opportunities arise.

Table 3: Actions to be implemented in the short term (by 2013). (The Lead Agency is shown in bold type. Codes in brackets provide a link to the relevant topic paper (s) from which the action originates).

Action (Codes in brackets indicate source of action) Organisations Milestones & Targets involved (lead body shown in bold) 5 Actions related to policy and planning A37: Develop a system of collaborative working to enable sharing of CEC – all relevant a) Creation of data sharing protocol. digital data between different agencies and Council Departments departments, WoLCT, b) Discussion of data sharing issues at involved in managing the Water of Leith (e.g. through the creation of a SEPA, SNH, HS, stakeholder meetings. single GIS system or use of the Parks Asset Database Management EWHT System (ADMS) (See M5 , B8 ). A38: Identify new “outreach” centres, which will provide information WoLCT, CEC Parks a) Distribution of path maps & RIGS about the river. e.g. RIGS geology leaflet. This should include existing and Green Space , leaflets through Saughton Winter Council resources and visitor centres (e.g. notice boards, Winter CEC CRS, PHRPRS, Gardens. Gardens), facilities in the Pentland Hills, and new locations (e.g. National Galleries of b) Installation of interpretation material in National Galleries, caf és, libraries and new premises). (See M7 , E7 , Scotland, Lothian & Saughton Park (as boards are updated). E12 , G4 , G6 ) Borders RIGS c) Installation of interpretation material in Roseburn Park (as boards are updated). (Discussion will be d) Installation of materials in relevant required with potential libraries (e.g. Stockbridge, Leith). “outreach” centres e.g. e) Establish two outreach centres. Forth Ports, caf és, private businesses etc.) A39: Revise the 1995 Water of Leith Landscape Resource Study to CEC City Completion of survey . provide an updated base line with which to monitor landscape change Development - and provide information to inform consultation response. (See L1 , P3 ) Planning, WoLCT

5 Organisations are: WoLCT – Water of Leith Conservation Trust; CEC CRS – City of Edinburgh Council Countryside Ranger Service; RIGS – Lothian and Borders RIGS Group of the Edinburgh Geological Society; SEPA – Scottish Environment Protection Agency; WoLAG – Water of Leith Action Group; EWHT – Edinburgh World Heritage Trust; PHRPRS – Pentland Hills Regional Park Ranger Service; HS – Historic Scotland; SNH – Scottish Natural Heritage.

16 Action (Codes in brackets indicate source of action) Organisations Milestones & Targets involved (lead body shown in bold) 5 A40: Progress detailed surveys of gardens and designed landscapes CEC City Completion of surveys. of regional and local importance, which lie on the Water of Leith Development - corridor or within its immediate visual envelope. (see L2 ) Planning A41: Develop and implement a strategy for weir retention/removal, SEPA, CEC City a) Conduct analysis of existing data which addresses weirs as barriers to fish passage and as potentially Development, CEC relating to fish spawning habitat and important cultural resources. This will require an audit of weirs along Archaeologist, barriers to fish passage. the river to identify their condition, cultural significance and impact on Honorary Bailiffs, b) Conduct audit of weirs. fish passage; a review of existing data on fish habitats to identify WoLCT, HS (May c) Hold meeting to discuss strategy. benefits of removing individual weirs; and stakeholder meetings. (N.B. require liaison with d) Agree strategy. the assessment of benefits to fish passage will need to be assessed Forth District Salmon within the context of barriers to fish passage presented by the lock Fishery Board/ River gates at Leith) (See F9 , H2 W3 ). Forth Fishery Trust) A42: Review infrastructure provision including locations (e.g. litter bins, CEC CRS , WoLCT Conduct a review on a five-year basis. seating) and assess the need to provide additional features or re- locate existing provision. (See R15 ) A43: Support actions relevant to the Water of Leith contained in the CEC CRS, CEC a) Completion of relevant actions Open Space Strategy, Active Travel Action Plan and other CEC Planning Services , Council documents that promote open air recreation and non- WoLCT motorised travel. (See R3 ) Actions relating to practical projects A44: Prepare an audio trail(s) for the river, which can be downloaded WoLCT, CEC CRS, a) Completion of single trail covering all from the internet. ( B6 , H17 , E8 , G7 ) National Galleries of topics that can be downloaded from Scotland, EWHT. website. b) Preparation of trails for individual (Discussion will be topics. required with CEC Archaeologist) (Possible student media project?) A45: Identify opportunities to deliver joint education programmes with WoLCT , CEC CRS , One project per year. other groups to provide “added value” ( E5 ). PHRPRS, National Galleries of Scotland, EWHT.

17 Action (Codes in brackets indicate source of action) Organisations Milestones & Targets involved (lead body shown in bold) 5 A46: Refresh the interpretation material within the Water of Leith WoLCT, CEC CRS, a) Secure funding for refresh of materials. Visitor Centre. Include a panel/interactive display about geology and CEC Archaeologist, b) Implementation of new display on cultural heritage, litter, water quality and quality of biodiversity (See CEC Museums Service, target topics. B5 , H15 , E14 , G1 , W15 ). Lothian & Borders RIGS, EWHT A47: Monitor the location of spawning beds and trout habitat. ( F8 ) Honorary Bailiffs a) Assessments at completion of flood defence works. b) Repeat assessment on 5-year cycle. c) No reduction in number of spawning beds A48: To work with community police to encourage young people to Honorary Bailiffs, Seek funding to hold one event every two take up fishing. ( F12 ) Community Police years. A49: Conduct an audit of cultural heritage resources associated with CEC Development a) Seek funding for audit. the river channel, including weirs & identify structures/ features of Department, CEC b) Completion of audit. cultural importance that are in poor state of repair/ are at risk e.g. from Archaeologist, c) Produce schedule of features at risk. erosion, self-sown trees etc. (see H1 , and H3 , H4 ) EWHT, WoLCT, CEC d) Produce work programme for Structures & Flooding, addressing features at high risk. CEC CRS, CRC Forest Service & others 6.

Scope for student project A50: Introduce woodland management programme to safeguard CEC Forest Service, Production of work programme to address cultural features at risk. (See H4 , H5 ) CEC Archaeologist with trees of concern. support from, CEC Services for Communities, CEC CRS

6 Designation information is available online via HS website; SEPA may assist with assessment of weirs in relation to fish passage; liaison may be required with Royal Commission for Ancient and Historic Monuments and Scottish Civic Trust who compile the Risk Register for Historic Scotland.

18 Action (Codes in brackets indicate source of action) Organisations Milestones & Targets involved (lead body shown in bold) 5 A51: Hold an exhibition of artefacts associated with the Water of Leith WoLCT , CEC Hold exhibition (H16 ). Archaeologist, CEC Museums Service

3.3.4 Medium term Table 4 lists actions for the medium term, which has been defined as by 2017, or before if opportunities arise.

Table 4: Actions for the medium term (to be implemented by 2017 at the latest). (The Lead Agency is shown in bold type. Codes in brackets provide a link to the relevant topic paper (s) from which the action originates).

Action (Codes in brackets indicate source of action) Organisations Milestones & Targets involved (lead body shown in bold) 7 Actions relating to policy and planning A52: Develop and implement an ecological management plan, which WoLCT, CEC Forestry a) Identification of management should include: Service, CEC CRS, compartments. • Identification of ecological management compartments along CEC City Development b) Identification of areas with potential for the river valley (to be conducted in conjunction with the survey habitat enhancement. of woodland along the river that has been conducted); c) Production of ecological objectives and • Identification of areas where there is the potential for habitat prescriptions. enhancement/creation or the restoration of habitat links; • Production of detailed ecological objectives and prescriptions for each management compartment 8. The principle of establishing continuous riparian vegetation is likely to underlie these objectives (See B1 ).

7 Organisations are: WoLCT – Water of Leith Conservation Trust; CEC CRS – City of Edinburgh Council Countryside Ranger Service; RIGS – Lothian and Borders RIGS Group of the Edinburgh Geological Society; SEPA – Scottish Environment Protection Agency; WoLAG – Water of Leith Action Group; EWHT – Edinburgh World Heritage Trust; PHRPRS – Pentland Hills Regional Park Ranger Service; HS – Historic Scotland; SNH – Scottish Natural Heritage. 8 This would need to interact with the Edinburgh Woodland Strategy, and the Environmental Action Plan for the flood defence works. It would provide the context for planning community based projects e.g. locations for wildflower planting, removal of invasive species, placing of bat boxes etc. It would also act as a mechanism to identify areas of land adjacent to the river, which are not in Council ownership, but where management arrangements with adjacent land owners

19 Action (Codes in brackets indicate source of action) Organisations Milestones & Targets involved (lead body shown in bold) 7 A53: Identify opportunities to improve surface finishes to improve the attractiveness of the route to particular users such as cyclists, without detracting from landscape character, as funding permits. (See R16 ). A54: Develop a lighting strategy that reviews current provision, the CEC City Development of strategy. criteria for allowing any additional lighting and which provides Development guidance on style and design of replacement lights ( R18 ). A55: Raise public awareness of procedure for reporting suspected SEPA , WoLCT, Production of awareness-raising materials pollution incidents (See W9 ) Honorary Bailiffs Actions relating to practical projects A56: Install orientation boards at key locations ( E9 , G6 ). CEC CRS, WoLCT, Installation of five boards (Balerno, CEC Services for Saughton Park, National Gallery of Communities (Parks Scotland, Stockbridge, Leith). & Green Spaces) , Lothian & Borders RIGS, National Galleries of Scotland, EWHT.

(Discussion will be required with CEC Archaeologist)

Scope for private sponsorship. A57: Installation of additional signs (using the “brown waterwheel” logo CEC CRS, WoLCT . Installation of three new signs 9. (See R4 , E18 ). Discussion with ScotWays.

should be established as a matter of priority. It should include details of locations suitable for habitat enhancement and provide detailed prescriptions to achieve this e.g. species mixes to use, methods of establishment, cutting frequency etc. 9 There are a number of locations where improved signage is required. Of these locations priority should be given to: (1) signage of the path in Leith (there are no signs north of Sandport Place), (2) within Saughton Park (3) off Balgreen Road, (4) Redbraes Weir. These are shown on the Site Management Issues Figure.

20 Action (Codes in brackets indicate source of action) Organisations Milestones & Targets involved (lead body shown in bold) 7 A58: Establish a funding group to review options to obtain funding for Honorary Bailiffs, a) Establish funding group. additional activities beyond core functions of the Bailiffs (e.g. work with CEC Services for b) Identify one new source of funding for local Police). Possibilities to investigate include (a) weekend/evening Communities, WoLCT additional activities. classes in fishing (b) publication of a fishing guide (c) sponsorship by private companies (d) corporate hospitality events (See F5 ). A59: To establish links with landowners upstream of Balerno to work WoLCT, CEC Forest a) Identify landowners. together on habitat improvements. ( F11 ). Service b) Hold meeting. A60: Undertake a community archaeology project: (See H14 ). CEC Archaeologist , a) Establish steering group. WoLCT, CEC CRS, b) Scope work. Volunteers & c) Secure funding. community groups. d) Completion of field investigations. e) Publication of results. Scope for student involvement. A61: Introduce system of monitoring usage of key sections ( R9 ). CEC CRS, WoLCT Report identifying the nature and level of current use of the path. Potential to use volunteers. A62: Conduct a review of improvements required to enhance CEC CRS Production of report. accessibility of the path ( R11 ).

21 3.3.5 Long term Table 5 lists actions, which whilst important, are not considered to be as high priority as those listed in the preceding tables. They should be implemented by 2020, and earlier if opportunities arise.

Table 5: Actions to be implemented in the long term (by 2020). (The Lead Agency is shown in bold type. Codes in brackets provide a link to the relevant topic paper (s) from which the action originates).

Action (Codes in brackets indicate source of action) Organisations Milestones & Targets involved (lead body shown in bold) 10 Actions relating to policy and planning A63: Improve rate of angling returns. Options to investigate include: Honorary Bailiffs, Increase current rate of returns (c. 4 – 5%) (a) establishing an on-line record system through the Water of Leith WoLCT by 5% per year. Conservation Trust website; (b) Twitter account (c) “returns” boxes in angling shops and visitor centre (d) Bailiffs keeping a record of catches made during their bank inspections. (See F4 ) A64: To assess the scale and impact of mink populations along the WoLCT, CEC CRS, Complete survey and assessment of mink Water of Leith ( B15 ). CEC City Development populations.

Opportunity for volunteer involvement/ student project. A65: Conduct a review of the name of the linear route e.g. the need to CEC CRS, WoLCT Completion of review change from walkway to path. (See R17 )

3.3.6 Actions to be implemented as opportunities or relevant circumstances arise There are a number of actions which, whilst they would achieve improved management of the Water of Leith, are not time-limited in terms of their implementation, or only require implementation under certain circumstances. These actions can be fitted into annual work programmes as opportunities arise. A number of these projects would be suitable for implementation by volunteers or through student projects. These are identified in Table 6.

10 Organisations are: WoLCT – Water of Leith Conservation Trust; CEC CRS – City of Edinburgh Council Countryside Ranger Service; RIGS – Lothian and Borders RIGS Group of the Edinburgh Geological Society; SEPA – Scottish Environment Protection Agency; WoLAG – Water of Leith Action Group; EWHT – Edinburgh World Heritage Trust; PHRPRS – Pentland Hills Regional Park Ranger Service; HS – Historic Scotland; SNH – Scottish Natural Heritage.

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Table 6: Actions to be implemented as opportunities or relevant circumstances arise . (The Lead Agency is shown in bold type. Codes in brackets provide a link to the relevant topic paper (s) from which the action originates).

Action (Codes in brackets indicate source of action) Organisations Milestones & Targets involved (lead body shown in bold) 11 Actions linked to policy and planning A66: Support restoration programmes for notable buildings e.g. grottos CEC Archaeologist, a) Inclusion of St Bernard’s Well in the in Craiglockhart and Colinton Dell, St Bernard’s Well, St George’s Well CEC Museums Service, “Twelve Monuments” project. (See H7 ). CEC City Development b) Identification and support for one project. - Planning, Private groups & organisations (e.g. Dean Village Association), EWHT.

(HS may be involved for designated sites/grant applications). A67: Ensure that heritage features associated with the docks e.g. CEC City Review of all development proposals bollards, mooring rings, cobbles, are incorporated within development Development , CEC against design principles for Leith Docks proposals as set out in Leith Docks Development Framework. (See Archaeologist, Development Framework; explicitly those H10 ) developers relating to incorporation of heritage features. A68: Improve public access to historic buildings in public ownership CEC Archaeologist, a) Facilitate access to St Bernard’s Well at (See H18 ). CEC CRS, private and least 6 times per year. community groups b) Facilitate access to one new location e.g. St George’s Well. A69: Oppose any further culverting and seek to remove existing CEC City No increase in the number of culverts. culverting where possible including on tributary burns (See W1 ). Development - Planning, SEPA

11 Organisations are: WoLCT – Water of Leith Conservation Trust; CEC CRS – City of Edinburgh Council Countryside Ranger Service; RIGS – Lothian and Borders RIGS Group of the Edinburgh Geological Society; SEPA – Scottish Environment Protection Agency; WoLAG – Water of Leith Action Group; EWHT – Edinburgh World Heritage Trust; PHRPRS – Pentland Hills Regional Park Ranger Service; HS – Historic Scotland; SNH – Scottish Natural Heritage.

23 Action (Codes in brackets indicate source of action) Organisations Milestones & Targets involved (lead body shown in bold) 11 A70: Support the implementation of objectives in the Scotland River CEC City a) Undertake survey to identify areas (some Basin Management Plan prepared by SEPA, particularly with respect Development - Geomorphological data already exists). to reducing pressure on beds and banks of rivers and bank vegetation. Planning, SEPA b) Produce maps showing key areas. E.g. ensure that development and use does not encroach on areas c) Use maps to inform planning process. required by the river for natural processes e.g. near Saughton Prison d) Monitor success via WFD process. (subject to the requirements of the flood defence scheme) (See W2 ). A71: Undertake ecological checks prior to all maintenance dredging in CEC Structures & Maintain register of checks. the river channel (excludes dredging within docks area, which is Flooding, Private consented via a separate process) (See W4 ). landowners A72: Opportunities to upgrade CSOs should be identified and SEPA, Scottish Water, Meeting WFD targets. implemented as part of other development initiatives, where possible CEC City Development (See W12 ). – Planning A72: All new and novel uses of the river should be fully assessed for CEC City All new proposals to be checked against their impacts on natural, cultural and amenity use of the river. (See Development , WoLCT, planning objectives and the objectives in W17 ) SEPA this plan. Actions relating to practical projects A74: Digitise biodiversity data collected by the Water of Leith WoLCT Opportunity for All data sets digitised. Conservation Trust. Digitisation should enable easy sharing of data by volunteer involvement relevant bodies (e.g. CEC CRS are using Recorder 6, and data should be shared with Lothian Wildlife Information Centre & NBN Gateway) (See B13 ). A75: Expand the range of information leaflets produced (e.g. a leaflet WoLCT, CEC Production of 2 leaflets during lifespan of that focuses on historical and cultural aspects and how these relate to Archaeologist, CEC this plan. the development of the City of Edinburgh such as the parallel museums service , development of paper mills with printing presses in the City) (See B5 , National Galleries of H11 , E15 ). Scotland, EWHT. A76: Provide free path maps to B&B and hotels near the route. ( R12 , WoLCT, VisitScotland Distribution of 100 maps to tourism E10 ). Opportunity for businesses adjacent to the river. volunteer involvement A77: Promote a project to explore the impact of bullhead and/or Honorary Bailiff s, Understanding of relationship between grayling on trout populations (requires the development of a brief, & Opportunity for student bullheads and trout in the Water of Leith. possibly seeking funding) (See F3 ). project

24 Action (Codes in brackets indicate source of action) Organisations Milestones & Targets involved (lead body shown in bold) 11 A78: Replacement of existing signs that do not fit the “brown CEC CRS, WoLCT Any new or replacement signs along the waterwheel” brand 12,13 (See R14 , E17 ). route should bear the “brown waterwheel”. This does not mean the wholesale replacement of all existing signs. All new signs that are introduced (either in new locations or as replacements for existing signs), then these should be of a consistent style. The historic cast iron signs should be maintained. A79: Analyse data concerning use of the Path that is collected by WoLCT Opportunity for Production of report detailing uses. WoLCT volunteers. ( M8 , R10 ) student project. A80: Identify potential new access points and circular routes (including WoLCT, CEC City a) Identification of 2 new access points. upgrading existing routes such as Poet’s Glen) to provide links Development, CEC b) Identification and publication of one between different footpaths. ( R6 , R7 , R8 ) CRS, PHRPRS route. c) Upgrade Poet’s Glen route. A81: Restrict approval for increased lighting on the path to avoid CEC City No increase in lit areas in adverse impacts on bat feeding and to maintain rural character of Development, CEC a) areas important for bat feeding; parts of path (to be informed by landscape character assessment (see CRS, WoLCT b) areas identified as of rural character in Action L1 ) and ecological management plan (see Action B1 ) (See landscape character assessment. R13 ).

12 This does not mean the wholesale replacement of all existing signs. All new signs that are introduced (either in new locations or as replacements for existing signs), should be of a consistent style. The historic cast iron signs should be maintained. 13 Signage in Colinton & Craiglockhart Dell is a different style to that used along the path (wood signs), blue waymarker signs are used at other locations e.g. near Sandport Place. As a minimum, the Water of Leith logo could be added to these existing signs to retain continuity of the brand. A good example of this is the use of the national cycle route markers on existing signs.

25 Action (Codes in brackets indicate source of action) Organisations Milestones & Targets involved (lead body shown in bold) 11 A82: Create a unified “feel” for infrastructure linked to the Water of CEC CRS a) Removal of signs that do not fit with the Leith ( R14 ). “brown waterwheel” logo. b) All seats within sight of each other to be in the same style. N.B. refers to new and replacement features only; does not require the replacement of existing furniture that remains in good condition and fit for purpose. A83: Establish a co-ordinated framework for the management of CEC City a) Formation of steering group. invasive species (part of LBAP) ( B12 ). Development b) Development of strategy.

3.4 Implementation and Monitoring

This plan will be implemented over the next ten years (2010 – 2020) by the Water of Leith Action Group Members, with assistance from other agencies as necessary. Responsibility for individual actions within the plan has been assigned to specific agencies, but it is anticipated that many of the actions will require collaborative working.

The Action Group members will agree which actions are to be implemented each year. Monitoring success against each individual action will be the responsibility of the named lead organisations. Progress will be reported annually, either at one of the meetings of the Water of Leith Action Group, or in a wider stakeholder meeting.

A master list of progress against each action will be maintained by the Water of Leith Conservation Trust.

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